MCM8 rs236114: Understanding Genetic Links to Menopause Timing
The rs236114 variant is a single nucleotide polymorphism located within the MCM8 gene. Research has identified this variant as having a suggestive association with the age at which women reach natural menopause.
What each genotype means
Typical menopause timing
This genotype is the most common form observed in many populations. Research indicates that this variant in the MCM8 gene is associated with the timing of natural menopause, though the effect size is modest and influenced by broader genetic and environmental factors.
This is the most frequent genotype in most studied populations, though exact frequencies vary significantly by ancestry.
Varied menopause timing
Carrying one copy of the T allele has been studied in the context of age at natural menopause. Statistical associations suggest a potential shift in the timing of menopause, but this is a complex trait and this genotype alone does not determine reproductive outcomes.
This heterozygous genotype is found at varying frequencies globally, appearing in a significant portion of the population in many ethnic groups.
Potential menopause timing shift
This genotype has been identified in studies investigating the genetic architecture of reproductive aging. While research shows an association with the age of natural menopause, it is important to note that this is a statistical association across large groups and does not predict an individual's specific reproductive timeline.
This genotype is less common than the CC or CT genotypes in most populations, with frequency varying by ancestral background.
What is rs236114 and Where is it Located?
The variant rs236114 is a specific change in the DNA sequence, known as a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), located on chromosome 20. In the human genome, this SNP sits within the MCM8 gene. SNPs are the most common type of genetic variation among people, representing a difference in a single building block of DNA, called a nucleotide. While most SNPs have no effect on health or development, researchers study them to understand how variations in our genetic code might influence complex biological traits. Because rs236114 is located within a gene involved in critical cellular processes, it has been a subject of interest in studies investigating reproductive health and aging. By mapping these variations, scientists can better understand the genetic architecture that contributes to the natural diversity in human physiological milestones, such as the timing of menopause.
The Role of the MCM8 Gene
The MCM8 gene provides instructions for making a protein that is part of the minichromosome maintenance (MCM) complex. This complex plays a vital role in DNA replication and the repair of DNA damage. Specifically, the MCM8 protein is involved in homologous recombination, a pathway that cells use to fix double-strand breaks in DNA. Maintaining the integrity of DNA is essential for the health and function of many tissues, including the ovaries. In the context of reproductive biology, the ability of cells to repair DNA damage is thought to be important for the maintenance of the ovarian reserve—the pool of eggs available throughout a woman's reproductive life. When these repair mechanisms are less efficient, it may influence the rate at which the ovarian reserve is depleted, which is a primary factor in determining the timing of natural menopause.
Research Associations and Evidence Strength
The association between rs236114 and the age at natural menopause has been identified through genome-wide association studies (GWAS). These large-scale studies compare the DNA of thousands of individuals to find markers that appear more frequently in people with a specific trait. Research has suggested that the 'A' allele of rs236114 may be associated with a slight shift in the age of menopause. However, it is important to note that the evidence for this specific variant is considered moderate. While GWAS have successfully identified many loci linked to reproductive timing, the effect size of any single SNP like rs236114 is typically very small. Menopause is a complex, polygenic trait, meaning it is influenced by the combined effects of many different genes, as well as environmental and lifestyle factors. Therefore, this variant should be viewed as one small piece of a much larger and more complex biological puzzle.
Population Frequency and Variability
The frequency of the rs236114 variant varies across different human populations. Genetic databases, such as gnomAD, provide data on how common specific alleles are in various ancestral groups. For rs236114, the Global Minor Allele Frequency (GMAF) is approximately 0.1079, though this number can fluctuate depending on the specific population being studied. Because genetic studies have historically focused heavily on individuals of European descent, our understanding of how this variant influences traits in other ancestral groups is less comprehensive. It is common for the frequency of genetic variants to differ significantly between populations due to evolutionary history and genetic drift. Consequently, findings regarding the association of rs236114 with menopause timing may not be universally applicable across all ethnic or ancestral backgrounds, highlighting the need for more diverse genetic research.
Interpreting Your Genetic Information
If you have access to your genetic data, you may see rs236114 listed. It is crucial to understand that this information is for educational purposes and does not provide a medical diagnosis or a prediction of your personal health outcomes. Because the association between this variant and menopause timing is based on statistical trends across large groups, it cannot be used to determine when an individual will reach menopause. Many factors, including genetics, overall health, and environmental influences, contribute to reproductive aging. You cannot change your genetic sequence, and there is no clinical action to take based on this specific SNP. If you have questions about your reproductive health, fertility, or the timing of menopause, the most appropriate step is to consult with a healthcare provider or a reproductive specialist. They can provide personalized guidance based on your medical history and clinical symptoms rather than isolated genetic markers.
How common is this variant?
The rs236114 variant is common, with a global minor allele frequency of approximately 0.1079, though frequencies vary significantly across different ancestral populations.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use rs236114 to predict when I will reach menopause?
No, you cannot use this variant to predict the timing of your menopause. Menopause is a complex trait influenced by many genes and environmental factors, and the effect of this single SNP is too small to be used for individual prediction.
Is rs236114 a 'bad' gene variant?
No, rs236114 is not considered a 'bad' or disease-causing variant. It is a common genetic variation that has been statistically associated with natural variations in the timing of menopause, which is a normal biological process.
What should I do if I have the A allele?
No specific action is required if you have the A allele. It is a common genetic marker, and its presence does not indicate a health condition or a need for medical intervention.
Where can I find more information about MCM8?
You can find reliable information about the MCM8 gene and its function in DNA repair through resources like MedlinePlus Genetics or the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) Gene database.
Sources & further reading
Educational information only, last refreshed 10/1/2026. Not medical advice — these associations describe population statistics, not individual predictions.
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Intergenic/regulatory variant near MCM8 strongly linked to the timing of natural menopause and primary ovarian insufficiency risk.
Missense variant in MCM8 robustly linked through large-scale meta-analyses to variation in age at natural menopause and primary ovarian insufficiency risk.
Missense variant in MCM8 associated with DNA repair integrity in germ cells and susceptibility to accelerated ovarian aging.
A missense variant in MCM8 associated with DNA helicase activity, meiotic function, and altered timing of menopause.
Missense variant (p.Glu336Lys, c.1006G>A) in the MCM8 helicase gene significantly associated with accelerated oocyte depletion and earlier age at natural menopause.